ANALYSIS OF NOMADISM AND MAJOR NOMADIC ROUTES IN WEST AFRICA: ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR FOOD CROP AGRICULTURE

Abstract

This study Analyzed Nomadism and Major Nomadic Routes in West Africa: Its Implications on Crop Agriculture. The study deployed the qualitative historical method which delved into history and interrogation of archaeological reports as well as written sources to ascertain the origin of nomadism in West Africa. It was established that nomadism involves movement of pastoralists from one place, country and region to the other in search of foliage and water course for their herds; moving  within the country from drylands to the wet delta areas, and seamlessly across borders in West African countries in search of favourable grazing grounds on seasonal basis. It Furthermore, there was initial cordial relationship and mutual benefits derived by both herders and farmers. However, their relationship turned sore and resulted in violent clashes due to the following reasons: environmental challenges and climate changes such as increasing population of human beings and cattle, drought-induced famine, and increasing pressure on the land and other natural resources such as water, depletion lakes, streams and rivers, which led to intense completion and mutual encroachments on pastoral routes and farm lands, respectively. The clashes resulted in destruction of farm crops, killing, maiming and displacement of farmers leading to depletion of farming population, reduced farming activities and crop shortage.